DermTech, Stiefel To Study Genes Involved In Acne

DermTech, Stiefel Laboratories will work together using DermTech's patented EGIR technology and proprietary gene expression assays to identify and further understand the genes involved in causing acne.

It is envisioned that data from the feasibility study may be used by Stiefel Laboratories in the development of targeted products to treat this widespread skin condition.

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"We are very pleased to initiate this study with Stiefel, a global powerhouse in the development of focused, next-generation dermatology products," said George Schwartz, CEO, DermTech. "Using our EGIR technology, a painless method of collecting RNA from the epidermis and identifying biomarkers of interest, we are confident that we will be able to help confirm and identify the molecular causes of acne."

"Acne has long been regarded as a nuisance condition but for a patient who suffers from frequent outbreaks or chronic blemishes, it is a major source of concern," said Gavin Corcoran, M.D., Senior Vice President, Global Research and Development for Stiefel Laboratories. "We are looking forward to using DermTech's non-invasive 'tape stripping' technology and expertise in analysis to help determine the genes associated with the development of acne. Results from the study may help guide the development of novel, targeted therapeutics."

Specifically, DermTech will provide to Stiefel Laboratories its EGIR skin sampling technology consisting of adhesives that will be applied to the patients' epidermis under an agreed-upon protocol. The adhesives will be sent back to DermTech for RNA extraction and gene expression analysis using quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction techniques (qRT- PCR).

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